Welcoming Twin Valley to the Northern Star Scouting Family

Big things are ahead for Scouting in our region! Twin Valley Council, based in Mankato, is joining with Northern Star Scouting after six months of thoughtful discussion. Together, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable future so even more young people can benefit from Scouting. 

Twin Valley has a long and proud history of serving youth in Southern Minnesota. By working together, our councils will ensure long-term stability, efficiency, and growth while maintaining strong local service. 

The combined council now serves 41 counties in Minnesota and four counties in Wisconsin and operates 12 camps, including Camps Norseland and Cedar Point. Together, we will support more than 40,000 youth, 700 units, and nearly 6,500 dedicated volunteer leaders. 

“As councils across the country face rising operational costs, this partnership allows us to share administrative resources while keeping our focus where it belongs—on increasing participation and delivering high-quality Scouting programs to youth,” said Dean Portner, President of the Twin Valley Council Board of Directors.

Northern Star Scouting will provide support for back-office functions such as accounting and management, allowing local staff and volunteers to focus on local programs and service.

“This step positions Scouting for long-term strength and growth in Southern Minnesota,” said Jeff Sulzbach, Northern Star Scouting CEO. “By working together, we ensure that future generations of young people can benefit from the values, leadership development, and service that Scouting provides.”